Costuming

People in costumes on a stage

Balticon has an incredibly diverse fandom with some amazing ideas to dress up both our hallways and the Masquerade Stage. Please join us for an incredible night of creativity and fun!

Cosplay​

Cosplay, or the practice of dressing up as a character from a movie, book, or video game, is a strong component of Balticon. Many attendees choose to wander around the con dressed as their favorite character. Anonymous judges will award Hall Costume Contest ribbons throughout the weekend. The costuming highlight of the weekend is the Masquerade held on Saturday evening.

Balticon offers hours of costuming panels, workshops, and presentations. We try to schedule the majority before the Masquerade so that novices can pick up last minute coaching, if desired.

The Marty Gear Memorial Masquerade​

The Marty Gear Memorial Masquerade will be held at 8pm on Saturday in the Main Ballroom. (Doors open 30 minutes before the event.) Individual and group contestants take the stage for a short presentation showcasing their costumes. Children will get to show off their favorite characters before the adults strut their stuff. Our team of expert judges award points in several categories, including creativity, craftsmanship, and presentation. Winners are announced at the end of the evening. The goal of the Masquerade is to give our costumers a chance to share their talent and put on a good show for the enjoyment of all. Everyone is invited to enjoy the display of creativity and artistry that will be on stage.

All questions can be directed to the Masquerade director at masquerade@balticon.org

Introducing the Masquerade Director

Dr Karen in purple crushed velvet gown, purple hair, galaxy print facemask, galaxy print boots.

Dear Masquerade Fans,

My name is Karen Purcell, aka Dr. Karen, and I will be your Balticon Masquerade Director. My Mom taught me to sew as a child, and I have been making my own costumes since my tweens. Over the years, I have been involved in many Masquerades, and look forward to being your director! I love getting to support my fellow costumers in the best ways to share their wonderful creations. Contact me via email: masquerade@balticon.org.